Oh beautiful Winston, I was so honoured to be able to draw this gorgeous cat. Winston was rescued by a member of my family from Iris’ Cat’s in Need. They’re an amazing little charity that help to take in abandoned cats and help them find their forever homes, you can see more about them on Facebook here: Iris’ Cats in Need.

Winston was rescued completely blind but that doesn’t make him any less adventurous. I’ve seen photos of him up a tree, a ladder and being a general outgoing, living life to the full cat. I wanted to make sure that his little personality came out with the image, as I know he can be a very cheeky chappy, so tried my best to get that done.

The reference image.

I always love when there’s a reference image that a customer would like an exact picture of. By having an exact reference it helps me to get the proportions and especially markings of the fur completely right. If I’m drawing a cat or dog in a different position to any of the pictures provided, it can mean that the markings aren’t exactly as they are in real life, as I have to guesstimate.

I loved the image that was chosen for Winston. He’s sitting with his little paws all tucked in and let’s be honest, tucked paws are super cute.

The final piece.

One thing I found a little difficult with Winston was making sure to get all of his gorgeous ginger fur to come out in the right tones, without looking majorly orange. I know that may sound silly but ginger is a big mixture of lighter, darker and some reddy brown tones which make his gorgeous stripes. It took me plenty of layers in procreate but we got there in the end and I’m in love with the final piece.

The cream background with the same gingery colour for his name compliments the illustration beautifully and everyone was super happy with the final piece.

If you’re looking for a pet illustration, be sure to get in touch either on Facebook, Instagram or via email. I know it may sound silly but Christmas is coming up and I don’t want to have to turn people down as I’ll only be able to get so many completed during that month. So if it’s on your mind, be sure to get in touch sooner rather than later.

Love, always – B
*For commissions, please email me or get in touch on Instagram*
I’d also love for you to check out my Etsy shop here: beccabynature